What you can expect from an FMB builder...

Only builders and specialists who can prove their skills and good business standing are accepted as members of the FMB, and the Federation logo on builders' vans and stationery is widely accepted as the hallmark of a builder who takes pride in the quality of his work, and who matches it with an equally well-run business.

In addition, the FMB Code of Practice means that you can expect the following professional and ethical working procedures and practice from the FMB builder you have selected.

Before work begins:

• Your FMB builder will try to make sure that you have all the professional advice you need on the project if it is a large or complex project. This may involve getting the support of architects, surveyors or other specialist professionals.
• An FMB builder will never quote on a project for which he has insufficient time or is otherwise unsuited to undertake.
• He will make sure that he has sufficient insurance cover for the contract.
• His written quotation will state the following:
  -the price
  -what is and isn't included in the price
  -what form of agreement will be used between you. (for instance, the FMB produce Plain English Contracts which are clear and unambiguous).
• The contract will state the following:
  -how long the job will take
  -when the work can start
  -whether the work is covered by an insurance backed warranty, together with details of any such cover.
  -Payment terms
  -Alternatively, your builder may quote a daywork rate and provide a copy of standard terms and conditions.

Whilst work is in progress:

• Your builder will proceed with the work according to the agreement between you, and will brief you regularly on progress.
• If there are unavoidable problems or delays you will be informed of these as early as possible.
• Your builder will supply you with samples of all materials and fittings for prior approval.
• If there are changes to the work specified or extra costs, these will be confirmed in writing, and agreed with you before such work begins.
• Your builder and his employees will at all times treat you and your property with respect and ensure that the working site remains a safe and healthy environment.

When the work is complete:

• Your builder will leave the site clean and tidy and ready for use.
• Any relevant operating instructions and guarantees will be handed over to you, and you will be properly briefed about any relevant maintenance or operating issues.
• A date will be arranged for your builder to return and deal with any defects which may have arisen during the first few' months.

Before work begins:

• If necessary get competitive quotes from more than one builder, and make sure they understand exactly what you want done.
• Ensure you have funds available when needed.
• Choose a builder with a proven track record in the kind of work you're having done.
• Use an approved form of contract and sign it before work begins, or alternatively, agree a daywork rate subject to normal terms and conditions (this can be a suitable arrangement for emergency or minor works.)
• Make sure that you understand the quotation and agreement and that it is signed and accepted by both you and your builder.
• Ensure that the site is cleared and ready for the builder to start work.
• Make sure your builder has unhindered access to the site.

Whilst work is in progress:

• Develop a good working relationship with your builder. If you have any concerns about the work, discuss them right away.
• Keep extras to a minimum and instruct your builder in writing about all variations to the specified work
• Choose materials and finishes carefully and approve them before use.
• Make any staged or up-front payments promptly.

When the work is complete:

• Report any urgent defects to your builder promptly and in writing.
• List any non-urgent defects for your builder to correct at an agreed time.
• Settle the final account promptly.